David de Gea (Manchester United) And Eden Hazard (Chelsea) Stars In Team Of The Week
David de Gea – The Manchester United goalkeeper is fast becoming the best shot stopper in the league. He made several key saves in the early part of the match, denying Alexis Sanchez, Jack Wilshere and Danny Welbeck. His close range save from Wilshere was reminiscent of one of his saves earlier in the season against Chelsea to deny Eden Hazard. This highlights the Spaniard’s calmness, even when the odds are stacked in the attacker’s favour in a one to one situation.
Kieran Trippier – Burnley continued their pick up in form, and defended for their lives as Stoke had 73% of the possession. The right back showed his ability, making several key interceptions and tackles to prevent Stoke from getting the equaliser. He also provides another option going forward, showing his ability on the ball at times on Saturday.
Tyler Blackett – Manchester United have come under pressure for their inexperienced back line, but it looks like they have found a real prospect in Tyler Blackett. He looked very assured on Saturday in a huge game, he was dominant in the air and made a few blocks to halt dangerous Arsenal attack. Danny Welbeck was controlled well by Blackett. The centre back improved as the game went on, he was really impressive in the second half.
Paul Dummett – He may be known for being a left back, however Dummett has moved to centre back of late, and he looks far better in the middle than he does on the left. The role suits him as he isn’t required as much on the ball, which is a positive as he isn’t the best with the ball at his feet. On Saturday he competed well in the air against the physicality of Bobby Zamora and Charlie Austin, who only managed to get one or two clear cut chances.
Nathaniel Clyne – It wasn’t an easy match for Southampton, but Nathaniel Clyne had another solid game which showed why he has established himself in the England set up. He kept Aly Cissokho and Andi Weimann relatively quiet, while he looked a threat at the other end. He was always a threat and came up with the crucial equaliser to earn a point, which could turn out to be key come the end of the season and ensured Southampton’s momentum remained.
Christian Eriksen – The Spurs midfielder ran the show on Sunday, especially after the sending off. It always looks like something is going to happen when the Dane is on the ball. His incredible technique with the ball led to both goals. The first goal was a result of his excellent free kick, that came back off the post. While the second was a quality finish from range. He is one of the few positives for Spurs this season, his passing range was incredible throughout the match.
Mile Jedinak – Jedinak dominated the midfield on Sunday and was arguably the standout performer, he broke up several Liverpool attacks and his distribution was the base of Palace’s impressive attack. His aerial ability is up there with anyone in the league and it was crucial at set pieces as he managed to make several key headed clearances. Of course, his main contribution was the third goal which was a sumptuous free kick from around 30 yards straight into the top corner.
HazardEden Hazard – Chelsea produced some of the best football of the season on Saturday, creating chances at will at times in the match against West Brom. Eden Hazard was integral to that, as he managed to cause problems with his dribbling and his movement was excellent. His goal came through a bit of quick thinking from Chelsea, and Hazard showed his composure as he managed to beat a man and drill the ball past Foster.
Moussa Sissoko – Newcastle’s resurgence has been unbelievable, and the man who has driven the change is Moussa Sissoko. His energy on Saturday was second to none as he managed to give a great performance. His style of play is to make an impact in both halves of the pitch, his pressing and interceptions were key, but it was his drive going forward that made the difference. He started the move that led to his own goal and then made the run into the box and produced a top class finish. Newcastle have now won five in a row in the league, not even Chelsea have managed that this season.
Yannick Bolasie – Another key performer for Palace was Yannick Bolasie, who created a lot of uncertainty in the Liverpool back four. He was unpredictable as he was cutting inside, and going down the line. It was his clever play that led to the first two goals, the first came from his powerful shot from range, while he put the second on a plate for Joe Ledley. Bolasie is an unpredictable player, and his leggy style of running has proven difficult for defenders to deal with.
Danny Ings- Danny Ings netted two goals for Burnley at the weekend, and both displayed his goalscoring instincts in the six yard box. If he continues to get into those positions, he will score goals. Everybody knows that goalscorers are crucial for sides battling relegation and Burnley have one. They need to keep him fit and get the service to him, if they do, he will score goals. His hold up play was also on display on Saturday as he managed to relieve the pressure at key times.